Spring Break Season
Now that March has arrived we are starting to see longer days and warmer temperatures. The worst of winter is behind us, although it is still likely that we will see snow again. Daylight savings time starts soon and all of us have one thing in mind. Spring Break!
March, typically, is when many of us start to venture out and plan memorable vacations. This endeavor is spearheaded by college kids, but it is not a prerequisite for travel. This time last year almost all trips were cancelled and the country was locked down. This is not the case in 2021; however, we must remember to be careful and diligent when we travel. Below are some simple tips to make the most of Spring Break vacations and to ensure we stay safe during our travels.
Follow the Rules
The first rule of safe travel is to make sure we all follow the laws and rules. It does not matter what our opinion of these rules are, simply put the law is the law. This applies in more ways than we often think about. One of the oldest travel laws that people ignore is the speed limit. Many of us are choosing to drive over flying to reach our desired destination. Driving can be hazardous and statistically is more dangerous then flying. Speeding, drinking while driving, or doing recreational drugs while driving is hazardous to yourself and everyone around you. Speed limits exist for everyone’s safety. Additionally, we hear about fatal accidents frequently due to alcoholic beverages. Do not put yourself or others at risk because you are too impatient. So drive patiently and drink responsibly. The cost of ignoring these rules has been proven to be deadly.
The rules surrounding airports and airplanes are different, but also must be followed. An airplane’s filtration system is actually very safe and efficient. Studies show that the risks of spreading viruses on a plane is very small as long as everyone follows the mask rules. It doesn’t matter if you have been vaccinated or if you do not believe masks help. The airlines all have strict rules and they must be followed. It seems like every week we hear another story about a person arguing with flight crew and refusing to wear the mask per the rules. These stories almost always end the same way. The person is removed from the flight, banned from flying, and everyone else on the plane is delayed and hassled because of it. So do not be that person. Fly responsibly and be respectful of the rules. It is in your best interest and the rules are designed to keep everyone safe.
Make Good Choices
This category is very general but is simple in its concept. Do the smart thing when vacationing. If you want to go to dinner pick a place that isn’t too crowded. If you want to go to the beach go early and find a spot that is away from large groups. These simple rules are easier said than done but ultimately you must be aware of your surroundings. Hanging out in a bar where people are all maskless and standing shoulder to shoulder is not the best decision. There are plenty of bars and restaurants out there so if you do not feel safe at one, go to another. Ultimately the best decision is to have smaller gatherings and parties. Stick with the group you traveled with and do not get to crazy. Being social is okay but being careless and reckless is not. So no matter what you are doing when on Spring Break remember that being safe does not mean you do not have to have fun.
Be Outside
Most spring break locations are warm and offer plenty of outdoor activities, take advantage of them. If you can be in the open air it is safer for everyone and will likely be more enjoyable. A nightclub sounds like a lot of fun but you can go to a club almost anywhere. If you are in a large rented Airbnb make sure there is a patio and enjoy the outdoor living options. Being outside is what spring break is about, remember this fact and embrace it. Pick bars and breweries with patios and plenty of space to spread out. Avoid small dive bars where everyone is stuck going inside to get a drink every time they need one. Spend some time sitting by the beach or sitting by the pool opposed to shopping or any other type of indoor activity. Lastly remember to have some fun and enjoy the sun.
Remember the Basics
With all the emphasis on preventing getting COVID-19, we often forget about the basic everyday things we should do to protect ourselves. A great example is remembering to apply sunscreen and bug spray. Sunburns and bug bites can lead to bigger problems in the long run and we should remember this when enjoying the sun. We all remember at least one time when we got sun burned and how awful it was. Remember and learn from past mistakes and do not reap them. Finally, remember that drinking is fun but we need to stay properly hydrated. So do not forget to drink enough water. It is easy to forget to and the result of this mistake can turn a dream vacation into a miserable event.
We are all sick of the cold and we all want to enjoy the warm spring weather. Stay safe and make smart choices, but have fun and savor the moments.